The Best Soul Music of 2015 on YouTube

Looking for the best soul music of 2015? Look no further than YouTube. From classic tracks to modern hits, there’s something for everyone.

The Revival of Soul Music

The past year has seen a resurgence in the popularity of soul music. This is thanks in part to the popularity of shows like Empire and Luke Cage, which have helped to introduce a new generation of fans to the genre. But it’s also thanks to the hard work of a number of independent artists who are keeping the music alive. Here are some of the best soul songs of 2015 that you can find on YouTube.

The influence of Motown

The sound of Motown Records was a unifying force in early-’60s America, giving voice to the African American experience while also having broad pop appeal that crossed color lines. The Detroit-based label’s greatest hits – by artists such as Diana Ross and the Supremes, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, and the Temptations – have been embraced by each succeeding generation, and their impact can still be felt in contemporary R&B.

The influence of Stax Records

In the 1960s, Stax Records played a major role in the development of soul music, and the label’s impact can still be felt today. Some of the most iconic soul songs of all time were recorded at Stax, including Otis Redding’s “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” and Sam & Dave’s “Soul Man.”

Stax was founded in 1957 by Jim Stewart and Estelle Axton in Memphis, Tennessee. The label’s first hit was Johnny Jenkins’ “I Walk the LineRevised,” which reached #5 on the Billboard R&B chart. Jenkins was quickly followed by other successful artists like Otis Redding, Carla Thomas, Sam & Dave, Isaac Hayes, and The Staple Singers.

The subject matter of Stax songs was often gritty and realistic, reflecting the struggles of everyday life in the urban South. But despite their sometimes bleak lyrics, these songs were also full of hope and optimism, thanks in part to their infectious grooves.

Today, many modern soul artists are drawing inspiration from Stax’s golden era. In 2015, YouTube played host to a number of excellent soul tracks that would have fit right in at the label’s peak. Here are some of our favorites:

The influence of Atlantic Records

Atlantic Records is one of the most important and influential record labels of all time. Founded in 1947, the label has been responsible for launching the careers of some of the biggest names in music, including Ray Charles, Big Joe Turner, John Coltrane, and Aretha Franklin.

In recent years, Atlantic has been under the ownership of Warner Music Group, and while the label has continued to produce some fantastic records, it has seemed to lose its way a bit. Thankfully, 2015 has seen a return to form for Atlantic, with a number of great soul music releases coming from the label.

One of the standout releases from Atlantic this year was Charles Bradley’s “Changes.” Bradley is a 64-year-old soul singer who was discovered by Daptone Records co-founder Gabe Roth in 2002. Bradley had been performing as a James Brown impersonator for years before being discovered, and his debut album “No Time For Dreaming” was released in 2011 to critical acclaim.

“Changes” is Bradley’s second album, and it sees him moving away from Brown impersonations and into his own thing. The result is an absolutely stunning record that features some of the best soul singing you’ll hear all year. If you’re looking for a place to start with Bradley’s music, “Changes” is an excellent choice.

Another great release from Atlantic this year was “Made in America” by Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings. Jones is another veteran soul singer who didn’t release her debut album until she was 40 years old. She first came to prominence in the early 2000s as part of the retro-soul movement that also included artists like Amy Winehouse and Duffy.

“Made in America” is Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings’ seventh studio album, and it finds them continuing to perfect their blend of classic soul and R&B sounds. If you’re a fan of either genre, this is an essential listen.

So if you’re looking for some great soul music to check out from this year, be sure to give these two albums a listen. You won’t be disappointed.

The Best Soul Music of 2015

There were a lot of great soul songs released in 2015. I’ve compiled a list of what I believe to be the best soul songs of 2015. This list is based on my own opinion, so feel free to leave a comment if you think I’ve missed anything.

The best soul songs of 2015

It’s been a great year for soul music. From neo-soul to classic R&B, there has been something for everyone. Here are our picks for the best soul songs of 2015.

“Earned It” by The Weeknd
This sultry slow jam from The Weeknd’s Fifty Shades of Grey soundtrack is guaranteed to get you in the mood.

“Loving You Is Killing Me” by Aloe Blacc
With its classic sound and heart-wrenching lyrics, “Loving You Is Killing Me” is one of the best soul songs of 2015.

“Good Kisser” by Usher
Usher gets sensual on this slow jam from his eighth studio album, UR.

“I Don’t Care” by Jeremih
Jeremih teams up with rappers Rick Ross and YG for this club-ready banger.

“Satisfy You” by Puff Daddy ft. R. Kelly
Puff Daddy reunites with R. Kelly for this ’90s-inspired track from his latest album, MMM.

The best soul albums of 2015

As the year comes to a close, we take a look at the best soul albums of 2015. These are the records that have kept us dancing, grooving, and feeling all kinds of emotions. From D’Angelo’s return to Leon Bridges’ debut, these are the records that we just can’t get enough of.

D’Angelo and the Vanguard, “Black Messiah”
After a 14-year wait, D’Angelo finally released his much-anticipated third album “Black Messiah.” The record is a masterclass in soul, with D’Angelo’s stunning vocals leading the way. The album also features some of the best music from The Vanguard, D’angelo’s backing band. If you’re looking for an album that will make you move, this is it.

Leon Bridges, “Coming Home”
Leon Bridges made waves this year with his debut album “Coming Home.” The record is steeped in classic soul sounds, and it feels like something that could have come out in the 1960s. But despite its vintage sound, the album feels fresh and new. Leon Bridges is an incredible talent, and we can’t wait to see what he does next.

The Internet, “Ego Death”
The Internet’s third album “Ego Death” is a smooth and sexy record that will make you want to get up and dance. The R&B group effortlessly blends genres like jazz and soul to create a sound that is all their own. If you’re looking for an album that will make you feel good, this is it.

The best soul artists of 2015

There’s no shortage of great soul music being made today. From classic performers like Marvin Gaye and Otis Redding to contemporary stars like D’Angelo and Adele, soul music continues to evolve and connect with listeners of all ages.

To help you keep up with the best soul music of 2015, we’ve put together a list of 10 artists who are making some of the most exciting and interesting music in the genre today. Check out our choices below, and be sure to let us know if we missed anyone!

1. D’Angelo
2. Adele
3. Sam Smith
4. Gregory Porter
5. Hozier
6. Leon Bridges
7. Al Green
8. John Legend
9. Aretha Franklin
10. Nathaniel Rateliff & The Nightsweats